Camping’s just better with a dog. Whether they’re snoring in the tent, zooming through the sagebrush, or guarding your breakfast burrito like it’s their job, dogs make every trip more fun.
Luckily, Utah is packed with epic camping spots that welcome your four-legged trail buddy. We rounded up our favorite dog-friendly campgrounds—from alpine escapes to desert hideouts—so you can start planning your next adventure together.
1. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway (Uinta Mountains)
Escape the heat and head into the Uintas, where the air is crisp, the lakes are cold, and the trails wind through pine forests and wildflower meadows. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers multiple campgrounds with lakeside access and shaded tent spots—perfect for tired pups.
Try this: Trial Lake or Moosehorn Campground
Dog Perk: Plenty of swimming holes to splash around in
Human Perk: No cell service means real, glorious unplugging
2. Red Canyon (near Bryce Canyon)
Get the red rock beauty without the Bryce Canyon crowds—or the leash laws. Red Canyon is part of Dixie National Forest and offers incredible dispersed camping right off Scenic Byway 12. You and your pup can hike hoodoo-filled trails together, many of which are leash-optional.
Dog Perk: Off-leash play on many trails and wide-open space to explore
Human Perk: Bryce-style views without shoulder-to-shoulder hikers
3. Goblin Valley State Park
If your dog has ever dreamed of becoming an intergalactic explorer, this is the place. Goblin Valley looks like Mars, with strange rock formations (the “goblins”) scattered across the valley floor. Dogs are allowed in most areas, including some off-leash zones, though the desert heat means early morning or evening adventures are best.
Dog Perk: Off-leash zones and endless weird smells
Human Perk: Alien landscapes and sunsets that don’t seem real
4. Tony Grove Lake (Logan Canyon)
Tucked high in the Bear River Mountains, Tony Grove Lake is a postcard-perfect alpine destination with cool weather, wildflowers in July, and a peaceful vibe that’s ideal for dogs and humans alike. The lake offers easy trails and refreshing water, and the campground is quiet and scenic.
Dog Perk: Splash zones galore and alpine breezes
Human Perk: Fewer crowds than the Wasatch and jaw-dropping photo ops
5. Sand Flats Recreation Area (Moab)
Right outside of Moab, Sand Flats is a prime basecamp for hiking, biking, or just letting your dog sniff the desert wind. The area has designated campsites and allows dogs, with tons of trails nearby for all levels. Bring booties or avoid peak heat—Moab sand can scorch paws.
Dog Perk: Desert freedom and so. many. smells.
Human Perk: Choose your own adventure—stargazing, slickrock biking, or trail hiking
6. Red Hill Hot Springs (Monroe, Utah)
Looking for a lesser-known gem? Red Hill Hot Springs is tucked just east of the small town of Monroe and offers primitive BLM camping next to natural mineral hot springs. There are three warm soaking pools and a cold pool at the base of a bright red hill, with big views of the Sevier Valley. It's not fancy, but it’s quiet (if you time it right) and dog-friendly.
Good to know: There's a pit toilet at the parking lot but no other amenities. The hot springs can get busy by midday, so aim for a sunrise soak.
Dog Perk: Room to roam and a peaceful place to snooze in the dirt
Human Perk: Free soaking under the stars and no reservation needed
Pro Tips for Camping with Dogs:
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Bring extra water and a collapsible bowl
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Pack a dog bed or blanket (they get cold too)
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Don’t forget poop bags—Leave No Trace applies to dogs, too
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Always check leash rules at your destination
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Keep an eye on heat and paw safety, especially in desert areas